A Cheshire College – South & West student has been formally recognised by the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET) and presented with a national Student Excellence Award for his consistently high-quality work.

Eighteen-year-old Sonny from Congleton is studying a BTEC National Extended Diploma in Level 3 Engineering at the College’s Crewe Campus and said that he was not expecting to be recognised by the IET, whose organisation places excellence as one of its core values in its ongoing mission to engineer a better world.

“My lecturer Tim sat me down recently and when he told me I’d won I was speechless. I literally couldn’t get my words out! It was such a surprise that I was being recognised for my efforts so far. And for that recognition I feel very appreciative, very thankful, and very proud.”

In honour of his achievement, Sonny received a visit from Godfrey Evans (Chair of the Merseyside and West Cheshire Local Network for the IET) and Alan Dixon (Member of the Merseyside and West Cheshire Local Network for the IET, and Education Officer), who officially presented him with his award and shared an engaging conversation with Sonny about his prospects and aspirations.

Godfrey stated: “My first impression of Sonny was excellent. He’s very direct, considered, and intelligent in his presentation. We hope this award goes to show the rewards which can be gained from enthusiasm and great personal effort.

“People like Sonny are essential for closing the skills gap. The engineering requirements for the UK are massive year-on-year, and it means there are lots and lots of opportunities for young people to make their mark in engineering.”

On the significance of Sonny’s award, Alan said: “This is the first step on his route to becoming a professional engineer. We hope Sonny will become a Student Member of the IET, as this will help him through his whole career, and we just wish him all the very best. He’s a young gentleman who will do really well in the engineering industry, and we would like to extend our congratulations on behalf of the IET.”

In addition to his official certificate recognising his excellence, Sonny also received £250 in prize money, some of which he plans to use for an IET Student Membership which will allow him to network with other engineering professionals and enhance his connections.

Upon receiving his award, Sonny was quick to thank Cheshire College, his lecturers, and support staff for playing a role in his success: “My experience at Cheshire College has been exceptional; I couldn’t ask for any more support from my lecturers and my peers. I’ve had careers advisors help me with my CV and explore industry opportunities, and Tim and Dan have given me the utmost support throughout my studies.”

Lecturer in Engineering, Tim Whitefoot said of Sonny: “Sonny is driven and keen to do the best he can with his studies, whilst remaining polite and respectful to all the people he works with. He’s more than deserving of this great accolade.”

Throughout their studies, Engineering students at Cheshire College have access to industry-standard equipment to develop their skills and achieve a broader understanding of engineering.

The College is proud to have strong links with regional and national employers within the industry including Bentley Motors, Stellantis, Ecolab, and National Grid. These relationships benefit students immensely as they explore work placements, advice and apprenticeship or employment opportunities. Cheshire College are now accepting applications for 2024/25.

Learn more and apply at www.ccsw.ac.uk.